The Great Compromise in U.S. Congress

Ashley·

Government

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Reword this for 8th grade Proposed by: Roger Sherman (Connecticut) Background: At the Constitutional Convention, large states wanted representation based on population (Virginia Plan). Small states wanted equal representation for each state (New Jersey Plan). Delegates argued intensely because both sides felt their interests were at stake. The Compromise: Bicameral legislature: House of Representatives: representation based on population. Senate: each state gets 2 senators, regardless of size. S...

This resource discusses the Great Compromise, which was a pivotal agreement made during the Constitutional Convention in the United States. It contrasts two major plans for representation: the Virginia Plan, which favored larger states by proposing representation based on population, and the New Jersey Plan, which ensured equal representation for all states, regardless of size. Roger Sherman of Connecticut proposed the Great Compromise, establishing a bicameral legislature (Congress) with a House of Representatives based on population (beneficial to large states) and a Senate with equal representation (beneficial to small states). This compromise resolved the significant tensions between large and small states, ensuring their interests were both considered in the new government structure. Additionally, it highlights the ongoing relevance of this system in today's governance, where laws must be approved by both houses, reflecting the interests of varying state populations.